In Style: Meet Mayda

Mayda Miller, born in Incheon City, South Korea, and adopted at just under one year of age, has been bobbing her head and swaying to music since she was able to stand in her crib. Without anyone else in the family musically oriented, this young Korean American pop artist has made a name for herself. Hailing from Minneapolis, Mayda’s music has been featured locally as well as nationally (The Rachael Ray Show, The Jersey Shore, The Real L Word, Weeds, Good Morning America, and the list goes on). Mayda’s new album, Busy Signals, drops in May.

How would you describe your style?
I would have to say that I am pretty simple (a little rough around the edges) with splashes of different flavors in the sense of art, fashion, and lifestyle. I like to be able to be mobile and ready for change in any situation. Concepts with accessories are most important for me in terms of fashion.

Who are your style icons or whose style has influenced your own?
I really like David Bowie and Sly & the Family Stone. I am also a huge fan of the ’20s and ’30s era, so Josephine Baker with a tint of punk, if that makes sense.

What are some of your favorite brands/designers?
I usually go the thrift store or local designer route because I am such a unique size to fit. With that said, I sometimes do not know what or who I am wearing. I always like to see what’s going on with what current up-and-coming designers are doing, though. [Ed. note: some of Mayda’s favorite local designers include Vanessa Messersmith with Blacklist Vintage, Laura Fulk, Kao Lee Thao, and Danielle Everine.]

What are your go-to stores and boutiques in the Twin Cities area?
Unique Thrift Store, the Mall of America, and local designer friends who help me find and fit outfits. I have no sense of what works with me!

When you need “work” done, what salons do you frequent?
Sometimes I go to Evolution on Lyndale or just call friends who work on-site. I rarely go to spas or places like that because I am broke. Just don’t look at my hands and feet. Not pretty.

You feel your best when wearing…?
Something that is not itchy, backwards or makes me look smaller.

Where are you most visually inspired?
At live performances/shows.

You always make time for…?
Creativity and comedy.

You never leave the house without…?
As nerdy as it sounds, my glasses. Everyone on this earth would be in trouble if I did.

Never caught wearing…?
Leotards, no way.

Your number one fashion/style rule?
Be confident.

How do you approach getting dressed?
What is the temperature outside? What event(s) am I going to today?

How has your style evolved the most?
From what I thought was cool to what I feel is cool.

What is your one fashion splurge or most expensive thing in your closet?
My tailored vintage outfits from local designer friends.